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PROJECT DESCRIPTION AND ALTERNATIVES <br />The purpose of the project is to construct a new outlet channel for the reservoir that will <br />avoid the need for maintenance dredging in future years, be protected from sedimentation <br />caused by wave action, provide flexibility in the operation of the reservoir, and will enhance <br />the removal of sediment from reservoir releases to the Arkansas River. The near -term <br />objective of the project is to enable reservoir releases to the minimum possible pool elevation <br />in 2003. Three alternatives were considered: <br />1. The "No- action Alternative." <br />2. Reconstruction of the channel at a lower elevation within the water pool to minimize <br />the excavation volume. <br />3. Reconstruction of the channel at the highest feasible elevation within the water pool <br />to maximize the flexibility and accessibility of the new facilities. <br />Alternative No. 1 is considered unacceptable because the sedimentation problem is getting <br />progressively worse at a time when the water is desperately needed. <br />Alternative No. 2 is feasible but has been ruled out because it is inflexible and provides no <br />advantages other than the presence of a new outlet. <br />Alternative No. 3 has been selected by the Company as the most feasible and justified <br />alternative. <br />The selected alternative, Alternative No. 3, will ensure that water deliveries can be <br />made from the lowest possible water pool, and will also provide many advantages over <br />Alternative No. 2. The location near the high waterline will allow construction of a protective <br />breakwater dike (using the excavated soils), provide better accessibility and easier <br />maintenance in future years, provide the means for removing sediment influx from Bob <br />Creek, and will allocate the natural resources in the most efficient manner. <br />The design of the channel cross section has been selected to optimize the <br />constructibility of the channel and the future maintenance of the channel. The selection and <br />use of construction equipment is a key factor in the economic feasibility of the project. Many <br />alternative construction equipment arrangements have been considered. Local and regional <br />equipment dealers have provided consultation regarding equipment performance and costs. <br />The most efficient equipment arrangement is believed to be a Caterpillar 365B excavator and <br />a D8 or D9 dozer. That equipment should be the most productive and lowest cost. <br />Excavation costs as low as $0.85 per cubic yard are expected. <br />Lake Meredith Res. Co. 3/7/03 <br />Feasibility of Outlet Channel Page 4 <br />